Lens for sports photography canon

The Best Canon Outdoor Sports Lens for 2022

What is the ultimate Canon sports lens?

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens
Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM Lens
Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Lens
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens

Do you own a Canon mirrorless camera? Our Best Canon Mirrorless Camera Outdoor Sports Lens recommendations page has your recommendations.

About Canon Sports Lenses

There are a huge number of outdoor sports. Watching the summer and winter Olympics brings this fact to light very quickly. Soccer, football (USA), baseball, softball, track and field, field hockey, golf, surfing, racing (many variations), beach volleyball, swimming, waterskiing and other watersports, cycling, inline skating, skateboarding, lacrosse, snow skiing, snowboarding, tennis, badminton, cheerleading, rugby, equestrian, rodeo, and many more. I can't cover individual lens recommendations for all of these sports here, but I will make some generalizations and recommend some of the best and most popular outdoor sports photography lenses.

When shooting action sports, action-stopping shutter speeds are usually a top priority (1/500, 1/1000, or higher). A wide aperture is the key to get these fast shutter speeds. Outdoor sports are often played in bright daylight conditions where even f/5.6 max aperture lenses will work fine, but fast/wide aperture lenses are still a significant advantage. Wide apertures can blur the especially distracting sports venue backgrounds and can yield the fastest shutter speed/lowest ISO setting combinations.

When cloud cover moves in or the sun is below the skyline, I seldom want a lens with a max aperture narrower than f/2.8. Even at f/2.8, very high ISO settings are sometimes required after sunset. And if you are shooting outdoors under the lights, you will likely find f/2.8 marginally wide enough.

Getting the right focal length is, as usual, very important for selecting a sports lens. Many outdoor sports participants cover a wide range of distances from the photographer's position.

Professional sports photographers shooting big events will usually be using at least three cameras simultaneously, ensuring that they have the right focal length available all the time. Likely is that two will be zoom lenses. Zoom lenses are great for getting the framing right for each opportunity and for delivering a wide range of views and perspectives. But, due to narrow aperture issues, The ultimate sports lenses with focal lengths over 200mm are prime/fixed focal length lenses with ultra-wide apertures.

If you are shooting large field sports (soccer, baseball, American football), you are probably going to want a full-frame 400-600mm focal length angle of view. If you are shooting track and field with full access to the venue, any focal length from 24mm through 400mm or even 600mm can be useful. If shooting from outside of the fence or from the bleachers, you are probably going to want 200mm to 400mm or more depending on your subject distance. Longer focal lengths permit ideally-framed subjects to travel longer distances than wider-angle focal lengths where the subject is only momentarily properly framed. Understand that heat shimmer/haze/waves can negatively impact long distance image quality. Sometimes getting closer is the better option.

Autofocus performance is a big differentiator between lenses when action sports are the subject. While most lenses can capture a distant subject running perpendicular from you across a field (a constant focus distance), it takes a good lens (and camera) to be able to focus-track a fast-approaching or departing subject at close distances or with tight framing. Economy lenses will not typically be up to this challenge.

Image stabilization, a feature on many of the lenses I recommend, is not a tremendous advantage for many types of action sports photography. The required shutter speed for handholding sports lenses is not usually a concern as the shutter speed necessary to stop action is generally fast enough to stop camera shake. IS is, however, a very useful feature that you might use for other subjects at an event (people in the stands, players on the bench). In addition, image stabilization can improve AF performance by providing a still image to the AF system.

Many IS lenses have a panning stabilization mode (Mode 2) available, and this mode is especially helpful for capturing motorsports and other flat-track wheeled sports (cycling, for example) with a directional motion-blurred background. I have not found Mode 2 helpful for human runners as there is frequently too much up and down motion going along with the forward motion. Give it a try for your sport(s).

I will start the sports lens recommendations list with the best of the best, and the prices reflect this. If you are shooting professionally or you really care about the image quality of your sports photos, these are the lenses you need to be using, the investments you need to make. Buy or rent them.

Note that lenses at this quality level have historically held their value very well. Use them as long as you want, and then you will likely recoup a significant amount of your money back when you resell them (such as when the kids get out of school or no longer participate in sports).

The Ultimate Canon Outdoor Sports Lenses - My Recommendations

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1. Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens

The Ultimate Sports Lens

If I was responsible for capturing an amazing image at a sporting event and had to pick one lens to do this with, the 400 f/2. 8L IS III would be my easy choice. This lens delivers phenomenal image quality including an extremely strong background blur, it has very fast and very accurate AF, it is weather sealed, and it has impressive build quality. I can count on this lens to bring home the impressive shot every time (at least when I do my job properly). The 400mm focal length works on the big field (in many situations), and its reach can be increased with extenders. This is the longest f/2.8 focal length lens available (aside from Sigma's enormous and incredibly high-priced Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 EX DG IF Power Zoom Lens).

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2. Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM Lens

Impressive Overall Performance

When I want more reach than the 400mm f/2.8L IS III gives me, when I am focusing on subjects/players farther from my vantage point than 400mm adequately reaches, this is my go-to lens. The 600mm focal length reaches deeper into the playing field, track, etc., keeps the photographer farther from any potential danger, and has a larger subject framing distance sweet spot. The longest f/4 max aperture focal length available, 600mm will blur the background very strongly.

The overall build quality and performance of this lens, including image quality and autofocus accuracy, is impressive.

APS-C format body owners will find this focal length too long for most sports uses. Heatwaves will make sharp 600mm mid-field images nearly impossible to obtain on a sunny afternoon — the 400mm options will be a better choice on those days.

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3. Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens

Who Thought a Zoom Lens Could Deliver Image Quality This Impressive?

This lens is large, heavy, and expensive, but it delivers image quality few of us thought would ever be possible from a zoom lens. That image quality, along with the versatile made-for-sports zoom range this lens offers, especially with the built-in 1.4x extender, has launched the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens to sports shooter fame. Pro-grade build quality ensures reliable operation for those whose careers depend on getting the shot.

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4. Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens

Simply Awesome Lens

It is not as long in focal length as the 400mm f/2.8L IS II, but the 300mm f/2.8L IS II is at least a match in performance, and it is smaller, lighter, and less expensive. And if 400mm is too long (especially possible for an APS-C body) for your need, this is THE lens to have. Or, add an extender — this lens performs exceptionally well with them.

The f/2.8 aperture is as wide as it gets at 300mm, the image quality is as good as it gets at any focal length, and the autofocus speed and accuracy rock. This lens is built for professional use and abuse, including use in inclement weather.

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5. Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM Lens

Impressive Performing Lens, Ultra-Light Weight

If the 400mm focal length works for you and an f/4 aperture is wide enough, the 400mm DO II is an excellent performer. The extreme light weight of this lens (relative to its focal length and aperture) allows comfortable handholding for most. APS-C format body owners are going to love this focal length when shooting on the big field.

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6. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens

The Ideal General-Purpose Zoom Lens

The 70-200 f/2.8 image stabilized lens is one of the most crucial zoom lenses in most photographers' kits, and the 70-200 f/2.8L III IS Lens is one of the best zoom lenses ever produced. Professionals and amateurs alike typically have this lens in their hands with high frequency. Professionals use it because there is no better lens available for many jobs, and amateurs use it additionally because this is the longest focal length available in an affordable, conveniently-sized f/2.8 lens. The wide f/2.8 max aperture allows action to be captured in low light (think indoor events) and, combined with the telephoto focal lengths, allows the background to be blurred away.

The 70-200 f/2.8L III IS is a completely professional-grade lens with great image quality, fast and accurate AF, and image stabilization in a solidly-built, weather-sealed, fixed-size body. An added benefit is that this lens performs well with extenders, an excellent option for when you need even more focal length.

Especially on a full-frame camera, this is the lens to have for capturing sports action happening relatively close to you. If you watch a professional sporting event, you often see this lens mounted on a camera hanging over the shoulder of a photographer using one of the previously-mentioned super-telephoto lenses on a monopod. When action is happening closer to the photographer, the focal length needed for the desired subject framing changes more rapidly. This makes the zoom feature even more valuable.

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7. Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens

Excellent Focal Length Range, Fast and Accurate AF, Excellent Image Quality, Pro-Grade Build Quality

It is hard to argue with the 100-400mm focal length range for sports. The hugely-popular 100-400L IS II is an overall incredible lens featuring very impressive image quality at all focal length and aperture settings. This lens is well-built, including weather sealing. When wildlife, surfers, aircraft, large-field athletes, and other small/distant subjects are in the viewfinder, you will greatly appreciate having this lens on the camera. Still, the small size afforded by f/5.6 max aperture means that this is a lens that you can carry and hand-hold for long periods. This is one of my most-used lenses.

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8. Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM Lens

Impressive Image Quality, Great Build Quality, Fast AF, Excellent Image Stabilization, Compact & Light, Great Value

If you don't need the 70-200 f/2.8L IS III Lens' f/2.8 max aperture, the 70-200 f/4L IS II will give you everything else in a smaller, lighter, and less expensive package. Without the f/2.8 aperture, you will need twice as much light to stop subject motion (at f/4), and you will not be able to create a background as diffusely blurred. But, you also give up a substantial amount of size (still fixed), weight, and cost. You give up very little in image quality or other pro-grade features, including solid, weather-sealed build quality, and you even gain a better IS system than what's found in the f/2.8L IS III model.

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9. Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Lens

Excellent Value, Very Good Image Quality, Pro-Grade Build Quality, Fast AF

If you can't afford any of the other telephoto sports lenses listed on this page, this is the lens for you. You should not expect to tightly frame subjects in the middle of a large field with a 200mm focal length, but this lens has fast and accurate autofocus along with very good image quality. It is my entry-level sports lens recommendation.

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10. Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens

Very Good Image Quality for a Bargain Price

If your budget is tight, this might be the right lens for you. The 55-250mm focal length is very useful, and this lens's image quality per dollar ratio is high. What is not high is the build quality of this lens, which includes a plastic lens mount. This lens is an "EF-S" model designed for the APS-C imaging sensor format (it is not full-frame compatible).

The list above is not an exhaustive list of lenses that can be used for outdoor sports photography, but these are my top picks. Any of the recommended Canon indoor sports lenses will work well for outdoor sports photography.

Visit the Canon Lens Recommendations page for additional recommendations.

The Best Canon Indoor Sports Lens for 2022

What is the ultimate Canon indoor sports lens?

Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens
Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens
Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens
Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM Lens

Do you own a Canon mirrorless camera? Our Best Canon Mirrorless Camera Indoor Sports Lens recommendations page has your recommendations.

About Canon Indoor Sports Lenses

The indoor sports photographer routinely faces one of the biggest challenges in the photography world. Basketball, volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, wrestling, dance, equestrian, etc. events are typically held under dim, spectrum-starved venue lighting. The photographer is often confined to one location while the participants move around – a lot. And the participants usually don't move slowly.

An indoor sports lens needs to have a very wide aperture to enable a shutter speed fast enough to stop the action under the poor lighting conditions. "Adequate" in these situations usually involves a significant compromise between motion-stopping shutter speeds and noisy high ISO settings.

A prime (fixed focal length) lens is often the right choice as these lenses typically get the widest apertures. Of course, the disadvantage of the fixed focal length lens is that you can't properly frame the fast-moving athlete as they go from close to far or far to close. The results from a prime lens in this scenario often require resolution-destructive cropping when the subject is too far away and creative framing when the subject is too close.

When it comes to indoor sports, the biggest problem with zoom lenses is that they seldom feature a max aperture wider than f/2.8. F/2.8 is usually what I consider the absolute minimum aperture opening for a successful indoor sports shoot.

In dimly lit arenas, even a max aperture of f/2.8 may require the use of ISO settings so high that an unacceptable amount of noise in your images is the result, especially with an APS-C/1.6x FOVCF DSLR camera. I shoot indoor soccer in one venue where f/2 on a full-frame body is not even adequate.

With a prime lens, you need to select the lens and position that works best for the particular combination or carry a couple of cameras with different focal length lenses mounted.

Autofocus performance is a big differentiator between lenses when action sports are the subject and light levels are low. While most lenses can capture a distant subject running perpendicular from you across a court (a constant focus distance), it takes a good lens to be able to focus-track a rapidly approaching or departing subject at close distances or with tight framing. Economy lenses will not typically be up to this challenge.

The focal lengths needed for indoor sports photography vary greatly, but the 70-300mm range covers most of the requirements.

The Best Canon Indoor Sports Lenses

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1. Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM Lens

Ultimate Low Light Sports Lens

With the longest focal length available in an f/2 aperture, the 200 f/2 IS lens rocks indoor sports action. This lens will stop action in 1/2 as much light as an f/2.8 lens and will create a stronger background blur than a 200mm f/2.8 lens, better eliminating the distracting backgrounds common at indoor sporting events. AF performance, image quality, and build quality are as you dream they could be. As with Canon's other large, wide aperture primes, this is not an economy lens model – but it makes a great deal of economic sense for serious shooters.

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2. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens

Great Low Light Sports Lens

This lens does not have the reach of its 200mm sibling, but it has significant light weight, small size, and low cost advantages. The L-series image quality you expect is there, and AF performance will keep up with fast-moving subjects.

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3. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens

The Ideal General-Purpose Zoom Lens

The 70-200 f/2.8 image stabilized lens is one of the most crucial zoom lenses in most photographers' kits, and the 70-200 f/2.8L III IS Lens is one of the best zoom lenses ever produced. Professionals and amateurs alike typically have this lens in their hands with high frequency. Professionals use it because there is no better lens available for many jobs, and amateurs (especially parents and grandparents) use it additionally because this is the longest focal length available in an affordable, conveniently-sized f/2.8 lens. The wide f/2.8 max aperture allows action to be captured in low light (think indoor events) and, combined with the telephoto focal lengths, allows the background to be blurred away.

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4. Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens

F/1.8 in a Zoom Lens is a Big Deal

The Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens is an APS-C format-only lens, but if that is your format, this lens gives you a before-unheard-of f/1.8 aperture that is ideally suited for indoor sports action. The nice range of focal lengths will prove useful for close-to-the-action situations.

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5. Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens

Also an Incredible Sports Lens

The 300L IS II is an amazing lens in all regards, and some reach is needed for indoor sports events, this lens is a great choice. You can expect impressive images from this lens – when you do your part correctly, of course.

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6. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM Lens

Great f/1.4 Aperture, Great Build Quality, Excellent Image Quality

The Canon EF 85mm f/1. 4L IS USM Lens begs for your light-starved action event venues. While image stabilization may not help you stop the action, it still helps the camera's AF system deliver better accuracy due to the stabilized image it presents. The f/1.4 aperture definitely will help stop the action, and it can also turn the usually-distracting indoor sports venues into a simple blur of color. This lens features great image quality along with pro-grade build quality at a price that isn't crazy.

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7. Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM Lens

Very Good Value, Fast AF, Wide Aperture

This 100 f/2 is not at the same level of eliteness as the 135 f/2, but it is a really good value. For a very reasonable price, you get decent image quality, a wide f/2 aperture, and Ring USM AF.

The list above is not an exhaustive list of lenses that can be used for indoor sports photography, but they are my top choices. Also, visit the Canon Lens Recommendations page for other recommendations, including recommendations for Canon outdoor sports lenses.

Best Sports Photography Equipment

Best Sports Photography Equipment - Canon Europe

ARTICLE

Sports photographers Jorge Ferrari and Jean-Baptiste Luthard talk about the equipment they consider most reliable for capturing exceptional sports shots.

The Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless system offers a range of outstanding cameras and lenses for sports photographers, including the EOS R5 professional camera and the RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM compact zoom lens. Taken on a Canon EOS R5 with a Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM lens at 100mm, 1/200 sec, f/5.6 and ISO1250. © Jean-Baptiste Luthard

Sports photographers need a camera that is reliable and durable so that they never miss a moment. They need fast, accurate autofocus, plus a fast shutter speed and intuitive control layout that keeps their eyes on the viewfinder as they work.

But what are the best Canon cameras for sports photography? And what lenses do professional sports photographers recommend?

“I work with a Canon DSLR, so the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM and the short throw zoom lens are the most important,” says Canon Ambassador Jorge Ferrari . However, Jorge, who shoots commercial sports and action scenes, also says the choice of lens will depend on the purpose of the event. “Let’s say I work at a rugby match,” he continues. “I will be using a 400mm or 600mm lens on my Canon EOS-1D X Mark III as I am trying to capture action-packed close-ups. However, for the award ceremony, I will be using a 70-200mm or 24-70mm lens on the camera as my goals have changed.”

Unlike many sports photographers who specialize in one sport and travel to photograph competitions, Jorge primarily shoots international competitions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the Middle East. “There is a lot going on in this region, and I cover a variety of events organized in these countries, from Formula 1 and football to tennis and triathlon,” he says. “I really enjoy working here.”

Fellow Canon Ambassador and extreme sports photographer Jean-Baptiste Luthard travels the world, but prefers to photograph mountain bikers as he has enjoyed the sport since he was a teenager. Jean-Baptiste was recently able to try out a Canon EOS R5 camera, as well as several Canon RF lenses. “I was very pleased with the results with the RF lenses,” he says. “I'm used to working with quality lenses, but when you look at the RF models, they have superb build quality. You immediately get the impression that you are holding a really finished and thoughtful product in your hands.”

In this article, Jorge and Jean-Baptiste, along with Mike Burnhill, Professional Product Specialist at Canon Europe, share tips and benefits for cameras and lenses to take your sports photography to the next level.

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Canon The EOS R3 features vehicle tracking, which is ideal for motorsports, ensuring sharp focus even in difficult shooting conditions, such as when a car is surrounded by dense clouds of dust. Motorsport photographer Vladimir Rys tested the capabilities of this camera by going on difficult shooting rally electric car. Shot with a Canon camera EOS R3 with lens Canon RF 400mm F2. 8L IS USM at 400mm, 1/32000 sec, f/2.8 and ISO 400. © Vladimir Rys

Canon The EOS R3 delivers exceptional shooting speeds of up to 30fps to capture even the fastest subjects. Taken on camera Canon EOS R3 with lens Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM at 472mm, 1/3200 sec, f/7.1 and ISO400.

1. Best mirrorless camera for sports photography: Canon EOS R3

The new flagship model of the EOS R series takes full-frame mirrorless performance to a whole new level. It offers continuous RAW shooting at 30 fps. and full-servo AF/AE with a back-illuminated image sensor and autofocus support up to 60 fps.

“It's basically a next-generation image sensor that allows slightly larger pixels and faster readouts than previous cameras,” explains Mike.

- It offers many benefits. for example, a minimal delay defect, which allows you to shoot fast objects without unnecessary artifacts and distortions. For example, a golf club will appear straighter during the stroke. And the fast data readout prevents tennis and baseballs from deforming into an egg shape as they fly – even a soccer ball could look a bit like a rugby ball on past generations of devices.”

Canon EOS R3

A camera designed to capture fast-moving subjects that meets the highest demands of professional photographers with ultra-fast response, high sensitivity, reliability and durability.

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Autofocus is faster and more versatile than ever. The Canon EOS R3 offers a new eye-tracking AF technology that allows you to select the AF point by directing your gaze to the desired area of the frame. People Detection AF now prioritizes eyes, faces, heads, and bodies to provide accurate autofocus even when the person is wearing a mask, helmet, or goggles.

Subject tracking is also more accurate with new race car and motorcycle tracking, and the new Flexi Zone mode allows you to manually select the size and shape of the AF area—for example, you can select a horizontal strip across the frame to focus on to capture the winner of a race and his track.

With superior built-in Image Stabilization, the Canon EOS R3 achieves up to 8 stops of shutter speed with select RF telephoto lenses, adapting to a variety of handheld shooting situations and capturing sharp images even at longer focal lengths.

“I don't use the RAW format that often because I usually want to send image files fairly quickly,” says Jorge. “However, I like that if I need RAW files, then I can shoot 16 fps. with the EOS-1D X Mark III mechanical shutter, and the camera's clipboard won't overflow." Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens (now succeeded by the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM) at 88mm , 1/2000 sec., f/2.8 and ISO 200. © Jorge Ferrari

2. Best DSLR for sports photography: Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

Professional sports photographers have been using Canon's EOS-1D series cameras for decades to capture superbly detailed sports shots with great detail. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III is the current generation of this camera; this model offers continuous shooting up to 20 fps. with electronic shutter and up to 16 fps. with a mechanical shutter, Deep Learning Dual Pixel CMOS AF, as well as high build quality and weather protection, which will be very useful for professionals.

“I love deep learning autofocus,” says Jorge. “She really impressed me at a recent tennis tournament, where the organizers wanted the tournament logo and name to remain visible even in the background of dynamic images. With the EOS-1D X Mark III, I was able to easily select compositions based on the organizer's requirements and then turn on Servo AF to track the player's face. At that time, it became a significant advantage for me.”

“The electronic shutter was also very useful. It takes some getting used to, but being able to silently take photos during a tennis match helps a lot. It was a closed event without spectators, so the players could hear any action of the photographer!”

Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

An ideal creative tool with deep learning autofocus, 5. 5K RAW movie shooting and effective low-light capabilities.

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You don't need a super telephoto lens to capture memorable sports photos. Jorge captured this moment by being in the right place and choosing the best composition with a 70-200mm zoom lens. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X (now succeeded by the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III) with a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens at 115mm, 1/1600 sec, f/3.2 and ISO 100. © Jorge Ferrari

3. Best Canon lenses for sports photography: Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM and Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM

Super telephoto lenses are essential for situations where the photographer cannot physically get close to the spot action, but the 70-200mm zoom lens is ideal for almost any other situation. “You can use it to photograph tennis, Formula 1 or football, which are completely different sports,” notes Jorge, who uses a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens (the next generation is now available: Canon EF 70 -200mm f/2. 8L IS III USM). “I don’t think you can successfully work at any sporting event without a 70-200mm lens.”

Its versatile zoom range makes it ideal for capturing moments that go beyond action-packed close-ups. Mike says, "It could be the coaches handshake at the start of the game, a coin toss, or an awards ceremony." However, the most important aspect for which all sports photographers take this lens is celebration.

“For football photographers, the moment a player runs to the corner flag to celebrate a goal is the main goal. That is why, in addition to a large telephoto lens, every sports photographer carries a 70-200mm lens with him.”

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

A modern classic, this fast aperture telephoto zoom lens is loved by photographers of all genres.

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Shooting close-ups with an ultra wide-angle or fisheye lens puts the viewer in the center of the action, an effect that cannot be achieved with a telephoto lens. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens at 16mm, 1/30 sec, f/5.6 and ISO100. © Jorge Ferrari

4. Best Canon wide-angle lenses for sports photography: Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM and Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM

According to Jorge, who works with with the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM and Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lenses, when you shoot a subject at close range with a wide-angle lens, you can create truly mesmerizing images.

“It often happens that I don't get home or to the hotel until late in the evening, so I have to carry all the equipment with me,” he says. “However, if I could take only one short throw zoom lens with me, I would choose 16-35mm, because when shooting with 35mm you can always find a place to crop the frame.”

The RF equivalent of the RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM, along with the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM and RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM, is one of Canon's top three professional RF zoom lenses . These are three reference high-performance RF zoom lenses with fast apertures for shooting at wide-angle, standard and telefocal ranges. “This is an excellent choice for a variety of sports photography,” adds Mike. “The RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM and EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM are great for shooting from different perspectives, especially if the camera is far enough behind the gate, for example.”

Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM

Premium ultra wide-angle zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture for superior image quality even in low light.

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The Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM lens captures even fast-moving subjects with incredible clarity. Taken on camera Canon EOS R5 with lens Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM at 1/160 sec, f/11 and ISO 100.

5. Best Canon Lenses for Sideline Sports Photography: Canon RF 400mm F2.

8L IS USM and Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM

Fast 400mm f/2.8 telephoto lenses are a classic option for sports photography, offering the owner of exceptional optical quality and an ideal viewing angle for shooting popular sports. They also support the installation of Canon 1.4x and 2x extenders to increase the maximum focal length if needed by the photographer.

“I have a Canon EF 1.4x III extender and use it regularly with a Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens,” says Jorge. “I was working at a rugby tournament a couple of weeks ago and found that this extender lens provided about the same level of focus and clarity as the previous generation 600mm f/4 lens.”

Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM

Super telephoto lens with high optical performance and class-leading portability, performance and image quality.

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High aperture is useful not only for shooting at minimum shutter speeds. “It also provides a nice background blur that draws the viewer's attention to the players rather than the fans in the background,” adds Mike.

Both the EF and RF models are great for monopod and handheld shooting as they offer users an exceptionally lightweight design. The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM also features a 5-stop Image Stabilizer, while the Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM offers 5.5-stop optical image stabilization.

When fitted to the Canon EOS R3, the RF lens also benefits from fast communication with the camera via the RF mount, enabling even faster focusing through dual focus motors. What's more, the new Eye Movement AF technology allows you to select the AF point by looking at it, making focusing more intuitive when using a super zoom lens. The

Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM allows photographers to create perfect images even from across the stadium. Taken on camera Canon EOS R5 with lens Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM at 1/2000 sec, f/5.6 and ISO 200.

6.

Best Canon Super Telephoto Lenses for Sports Photography: Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM and Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM

If you can't get closer to the action, get the 600mm f/4 super telephoto lens with legendary L build quality -series will help you shoot from afar without sacrificing optical quality.

“At the Rugby Sevens in Dubai, I chose the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens as my primary lens, and it did the job perfectly thanks to the face detection and tracking focus of my Canon EOS-1D X Mark III,” says Jorge. “I thought it would be difficult for the camera to focus due to the number of faces in the frame, but the only time the autofocus failed was if I was too close to the subject with a 600mm lens.”

Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM

Super telephoto lens with high optical performance and class-leading portability and optical performance.

More information 

Mike believes that while 600mm f/4 lenses are extremely popular with wildlife photographers, they are ideal for shooting many sports. “For example, these are skiing and other winter sports, where the shooting is usually done from a long distance, as the athletes go down the mountain. This includes rugby, where the presence of a large area behind the goal means that photographers need to shoot from a greater distance than at football matches. Moreover, during golf and tennis matches, they can create interesting close-up images.”

When you attach the Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM to the Canon EOS R3, you can also enjoy even faster autofocus thanks to the high data transfer rate of the RF mount, as well as superb image stabilization even when shooting handheld in situations where telephoto Lenses are most sensitive to any camera vibration.

7. Most versatile super telephoto lens for sports photography: Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x

This versatile professional 200-400mm f/4 zoom lens with built-in 1.4x extender helps you quickly capture the highlights of sports. “Its versatility is the reason for its popularity among a wide range of sports photographers,” says Mike. “Many choose to avoid zoom lenses, but the quality remains extremely high, and the flexibility of operation eliminates all doubts, after which they successfully work with a zoom lens instead of prime models.”

“If you want to work with a single lens, this model is perfect for you. If you're shooting Formula 1 and walking along the track, this lens is all you need. It offers a wide range of telephoto focal lengths, as well as the ability to use an extender if needed.”

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x

Professional 200-400mm f/4 lens with built-in 1.4x extender that increases focal lengths to 280-560mm and 4-stop IS to create the clearest images.

Additional information 

Author Marcus Hawkins

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How to take great pictures at sports events

How to take great pictures at sports events - Canon Belarus no Consumer

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Over his 40-year career as a photographer took some legendary shots in the history of rugby. Since 1987 he has worked at every Rugby World Cup and this year in Japan he will be photographing England players every day. Here you'll find Dave's 10 tips and tricks for capturing quality photos of any sporting event.

Dave became interested in photography in the 1970s as a teenager while following the English football team Wolverhampton Wanderers. He recalls that he was equally interested in both the matches themselves and what was happening off the field, especially the photographers working in the stadium.

Dave's career began with a local newspaper, and then thanks to his shooting skills, perseverance and a bit of luck, as the photographer himself, managed to win a place in the hall of fame of sports photographers. He captured New Zealand's Jonah Lomu colliding with England's Mike Catt during the Rugby World Cup 1995 years; Nelson Mandela when he also presented the trophy to François Pienaar, captain of the South African rugby team, in 1995, uniting South Africa after a long apartheid; Johnny Wilkinson's dramatic extra-time goal that helped England win the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and many other memorable moments.

Dave's most memorable image was taken at the 2003 Rugby World Cup. In the picture, England captain Martin Johnson towers over the photographer holding the trophy he received for winning the tournament. The photo conveys his jubilant cry, which seems to be in unison with the shouts of the team and fans celebrating the victory. In the huge hands of the athlete, the trophy looks small, and the light of the spotlights illuminating the arena is reflected from it.

When we met Dave, he was already starting preparations for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan; Dave will be photographing the England team during the tournament. Dave always thinks carefully about the route and prepares photographic equipment that may be needed during the shooting. Before starting work, you must also obtain a license to use the remote shutter release in the stadium. He told us that in addition to three professional cameras, lenses, tripods and monopods, he also plans to bring rain gear to help him cope with the Japanese rainy season.

Moreover, he is already planning what kind of photos to take. Among the thousands of photos he is about to take during the tournament, he is most keen to take only one: “My dream is to capture how the England players once again raise the Webb Ellis Cup, that is, the World Cup!”

In this article, the photographer shares his tips for capturing quality shots at any sporting event.

1. Learn the sport you are photographing

“The main thing is to understand the essence of the sport you work with,” says Dave. “Learn the rules of the game to understand what the players are trying to achieve. ” Without this, you will not be able to predict the next actions of the player.

Every sport is different. According to Dave, football is more dynamic than rugby, and the process of taking photographs also becomes more dynamic. But on the other hand, on the rugby field there are more people who can block the view, in football it is easier to get a clear shot because there are fewer players on it.

2. Buy the best equipment you can afford

When Dave started out as a photographer, he got into journalism training at the British National Council, even though he didn't even have a camera. He had to buy what he could afford at the time, which was an old 35mm film camera. If you're just getting started in photography, he recommends choosing equipment according to three main criteria - ease of use, reliability, and value for money. “Just buy the best you can afford,” says the photographer; beware of false savings.

If a complete set of DSLRs is too expensive, consider getting a compact or semi-professional camera that will allow you to capture sports photography. The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS, the best of Canon's semi-professional cameras, boasts a 65x optical zoom, accurate and fast autofocus (with continuous autofocus), and a 10fps shooting rate. - all this will help you capture what is happening on the field.

However, if you want to take advantage of Canon lenses for effective sports photography, consider purchasing a digital SLR camera such as the Canon EOS 80D.

3. Choose a reliable lens

“The standard lens for sports photography is the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM; there is also a new, lighter version, the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM; I also frequently use the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM - all of these lenses provide excellent results. They are reliable and withstand severe mechanical stress. When you're shooting sports, you often have to turn the camera around, and you also have to run a lot - only a reliable lens can withstand such shooting conditions.

If you are just starting out with photography, the 70-200mm is better for you. Few other than specialists use a 400mm lens.”

For almost the same results, you can also consider the more budget-friendly Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM or Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. Both lenses feature Canon's award-winning Image Stabilization (IS) technology, which reduces blur caused by camera shake. When hand shakes, the element inside the lens will move in the opposite direction to compensate for the movement. This means that even when shooting handheld and not on a tripod, your photos will be stunningly clear.

4. Focus on the action, not the background

“Set a fast shutter speed and a wide aperture as the background can be overly colorful, such as advertisements, and distract the viewer. Remember - the wider the aperture, the shallower the depth of field will be. Just leave the background blurry and try using the lens at the maximum available focal length. Select one of the minimum ISO settings to use a fast shutter speed with an open aperture. "

One of the tricks that Dave uses to eliminate unnecessary background is to position himself - he takes a seat on the top rows of the stands and looks down on what is happening on the field. "If you can capture the shot from above, you'll get a clean green background."

5. Find a spot in the sun

Dave says the best shooting conditions are overcast, as the photographer says the light spreads more evenly across the field and the photographer doesn't need to change exposure too often . But if you have to work on a sunny day when there is a strong contrast between the lit and shaded areas of the frame, Dave recommends positioning yourself in a spot where the sun is shining and photographing the shaded area of the field. So you get decent pictures with the right amount of light. “If you sit in the shade and photograph what is happening right under the sun, it will be difficult for you to get a good shot. Often in photos you will see only the silhouette of a player against a bright background. So always stay in the sun. It will also provide more pleasing colors."

The easiest way to change your location is at sporting events where spectators are free to stand up and move around the venue - you can choose your seat until you find the perfect position. At ticketed events, you can sometimes choose where you want to sit. Find out the place and time of the event, and then, based on the information, determine which places will be on the sunny side at that time. You can even download a special application that determines the position of the sun for the selected location.

6. Experiment with silhouettes

Sometimes shooting silhouettes isn't the worst thing to do. To do this, lower your ISO, set a slower shutter speed, and stop down your aperture (choose a higher f-number). “You need a light background,” Dave advises. - For this effect, you need to underexposure the entire frame. Shooting silhouettes can have the desired effect if it is not abused. Otherwise, such photographs will soon cease to attract the attention of viewers.

7. Experiment with blurring

Once you've taken some good photos, it's time to get creative. Some novice sports photographers prefer the "freeze time" effect, but Dave recommends trying blur photography to capture the momentum of what's happening. To achieve this effect, set the shutter speed to 1/15 second. The photographer notes: “Excessive blurring will lead to the fact that the viewer will not understand what the athlete is doing. In any case, you need to ensure that the face of the person in the frame is as clear as possible.

Particularly in sports where movement can be predicted, such as horse racing, running, or motorsports, following the subject (moving the camera so that the moving subject stays in the frame) will ensure that the moving subject is in focus, along with blurring the background, giving a sense of speed.

8. Try shooting from a low angle

For more expressive shots, Dave recommends shooting from a low angle. "If you crouch or lie down while the player is jumping in your direction, it will look like they are hovering in the frame on the frame."

This is exactly the tactic Dave used when, in 2003, he took the famous image of England rugby captain Martin Johnson holding the World Cup. Positioned lower than Martin, he was able to capture the tall and strong player in all his glory.